Find out how popular the first name Nuala has been for the last 26 years (from 1999 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Nuala by gender

Based on the last 26 years of data, Nuala is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 15 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Nuala.

The history of the first name Nuala

Nuala is a feminine given name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "nuallan," which means "a cry" or "a roar." The name has been in use since ancient times and is believed to have originated in Ireland during the medieval period.

The name Nuala is closely associated with Irish mythology and folklore. It is said that the name was initially given to a goddess or fairy who was known for her beautiful singing voice. According to legend, the enchanting melodies of Nuala could captivate even the most hardened of hearts.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Nuala can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history. The annals mention a woman named Nuala who lived in the 12th century and was known for her exceptional beauty and grace.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Nuala. One of the most famous was Nuala Ní Dhomhnaill (1952-2008), an acclaimed Irish poet and academic who wrote extensively in both Irish and English. Her works explored themes of identity, language, and the human experience.

Another notable Nuala was Nuala O'Faolain (1940-2008), an Irish journalist, and writer who gained international recognition for her memoir, "Are You Somebody? The Accidental Memoir of a Dublin Woman." Her candid and introspective writing shed light on the complexities of modern Irish society.

In the realm of music, Nuala Kennedy (born 1967) is an Irish singer-songwriter and musician who has made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional Irish music. Her haunting vocals and captivating performances have earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following.

Nuala Ní Chonchúir (born 1970) is an Irish writer and poet whose works often explore themes of identity, family, and the human condition. Her short story collections and novels have garnered numerous awards and accolades, cementing her place as a prominent voice in contemporary Irish literature.

Finally, Nuala Archer (1939-2023) was an Irish actress and singer best known for her roles in several popular television series, including "The Riordans" and "Glenroe." Her talent and versatility as a performer made her a beloved figure in Irish entertainment.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Nuala was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Nuala, please contact us.

Reference this page

We spend a lot of resources downloading, cleaning, merging, and formatting the data that is shown on the site.

If you found the data or information on this page useful in your research, please use the tool below to properly cite or reference Name Census as the source. We appreciate your support!